Want to help the victims of the Las Vegas mass shooting? The recent massacre on the Las Vegas strip was the deadliest in our nation's history, but Americans are united in their desire to help. Fortunately, local and national efforts are underway to provide vital assistance to victims and their families. The American Red Cross is hosting blood drives and accepting donations, and a Clark County commissioner launched a GoFundMe campaign to help victims. The National Compassion Fund is also stepping in to help those who've been affected. Read on to learn more about how you can help in the wake of this tragic event.

With more than 500 people injured, Las Vegas hospitals could face shortages in blood donations in coming days and weeks. Fortunately, blood donation clinics in cities throughout the country are taking donations that can be shipped as needed to Vegas. Contact your local American Red Cross chapter to learn about blood banks in your area where your blood donation could make an immediate impact.

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Where can I give blood if I'm in Vegas?

The American Red Cross is holding blood drives at the SpringHill Suites Las Vegas Convention Center and at Ernest May Elementary School.

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What is the best way to donate money to the American Red Cross?

You can donate money to the Southern Nevada chapter of the American Red Cross -- that's the branch that's directly responding to the needs of victims and their families. Donations can be made on the Red Cross website, by phone at 702-369-3674 or by mail. The mailing address is 1771 East Flamingo Road, #206B, Las Vegas, NV 89119.

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How can I directly donate to families?

Clark County Commission Chairman Steve Sisolak has launched a GoFundMe campaign called the Las Vegas Victims' Fund to directly help victims and families.

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Can I help an organization that regularly responds to mass shootings?

The National Compassion Fund is a nonprofit organization that regularly responds in times of large-scale disasters. Donations have helped the families of victims in the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and others. The organization's website is at nationalcompassionfund.org.

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What if I want to make my voice heard politically?

It's natural to feel like you want to speak out in the wake of mass shootings. The most productive way to speak out is to contact your state and federal representatives. Experts often advise that phone calls carry more weight than emails.

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Can I share my services as a certified trauma counselor?

Mandalay Bay Resort has set up a hotline for people in need of emergency trauma counseling. If you are a certified trauma counselor, you can call the resort to see whether your help might still be needed.